Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (SP)

Mangaluru, Apr 12: Liquor vendors from here usually witness roaring business during the holiday season very year, which also happens to be the period when most of the functions are held. They also expected their business to boost on account of upcoming assembly election this time. But they are now in a shock.

Because of strict compliance with election code of conduct, liquor sale has in fact, come down, as electoral officials have been keeping a close vigil on liquor dealers to ensure that liquor is not used to lure and influence voters. Those dealing with liquor were authorized to sell six bottles (4.5 litre) liquor to an individual, but this has been reduced to only two bottles per head during the period code of conduct is in force. The traders have to provide accounts of prevailing demand and business. They have also been told not to increase their demand for liquor. The officials also visit various shops and check stock, sale details etc.

The liquor sellers are cursing their misfortune of having to cope with election code of conduct during holiday season. The officials have been watching parties involving liquor, and are restricting permission to hold such parties. A liquor merchant rued the fact as against his hope of doubling of sale, he has been experiencing steep fall in business since April first week.

Another thing that has contributed to this phenomenon is a hike of eight percent on price of liquor. Some kinds of liquor are not easily available, for want of labels mentioning new rates. Wine stores which are expected to sell liquor but not facilitate its consumption in their premises, many a time, have been providing facility to consume liquor in their premises. They are also under the scrutiny of the officials who have been taking action when they notice this violation.

Excise deputy commissioner of the district, Shylaja A Kote, said that liquor sale has come down drastically as compared to April last year and shop keepers have been restrained from issuing parcels for heavy orders. She stated that transportation of stock has come down and her department and its police have also been keeping tab on liquor transportation.